After the Prophet

After the Prophet

"After the Prophet: The Epic Story of the Shia-Sunni Split in Islam" by Lesley Hazleton is a captivating historical account that delves into the origins and consequences of the division between Sunni and Shia Muslims. The book focuses on the events that followed the death of the Prophet Muhammad, a pivotal moment in Islamic history, and examines how differing interpretations of leadership and succession led to a deep and lasting schism within the Muslim community.

Through rich storytelling and thorough research, Hazleton provides a detailed narrative of the key figures, battles, and theological debates that shaped the future of Islam. She explores the human emotions, political intrigue, and religious passions that fueled the divide, offering readers a nuanced understanding of this complex and often misunderstood aspect of Islamic history.

"After the Prophet" is a thought-provoking exploration of how the legacy of early Islamic conflicts continues to influence the Muslim world today. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history, politics, and dynamics of Islam.

In this gripping narrative history, Lesley Hazleton tells the tragic story at the heart of the ongoing rivalry between the Sunni and Shia branches of Islam, a rift that dominates the news now more than ever.
 
Even as Muhammad lay dying, the battle over who would take control of the new Islamic nation had begun, beginning a succession crisis marked by power grabs, assassination, political intrigue, and passionate faith. Soon Islam was embroiled in civil war, pitting its founder's controversial wife Aisha against his son-in-law Ali, and shattering Muhammad’s ideal of unity.
   
Combining meticulous research with compelling storytelling, After the Prophet explores the volatile intersection of religion and politics, psychology and culture, and history and current events. It is an indispensable guide to the depth and power of the Shia–Sunni split.